Rise Against Hunger Philippines Celebrates A Decade of Leading the Fight Against Hunger

Rise Against Hunger Philippines Celebrates A Decade of Leading the Fight Against Hunger

Sunday, February 2, 2025

Rise Against Hunger Philippines (RAHP) recently celebrated a decade of transformative impact in the fight against hunger, bringing together over 100 partners, donors, and supporters at a special event in Makati City. The milestone event highlighted the strong dedication of RAHP to ending hunger and finding lasting solutions for communities in need across the country.

Since its founding in 2015, RAHP has remained at the forefront of addressing hunger across the Philippines. Through the dedicated efforts of its partners and supporters, RAHP has: 

• Delivered millions of meals to food-insecure communities.
• Provided critical emergency relief to disaster-affected areas.
• Empowered communities to build sustainable food security solutions.

As part of the milestone celebration, RAHP announced the launch of the Pabaon Project, an online fundraising initiative to improve nutrition for students in remote primary schools in Ifugao. This initiative reflects RAHP’s continued commitment to addressing the root causes of hunger by enhancing access to nutritious meals, which are important for academic success and community development.

“We are proud to launch the Pabaon Project as part of our broader mission to end hunger, particularly in areas with the highest levels of food insecurity. This initiative will help ensure that no child goes hungry, enabling them to thrive in school and their communities,” said Jomar Fleras, Executive Director of Rise Against Hunger Philippines.

Looking Ahead

As the organization enters its second decade, RAHP is focused on expanding its impact, strengthening partnerships, and continuing to lead the fight against hunger in the Philippines. The organization’s decade-long leadership, expertise, and commitment have solidified its role as a key force in the movement to end hunger.

To amplify its efforts, RAHP has invited actor and humanitarian Piolo Pascual to serve as its campaign ambassador. Through his platform, Pascual aims to inspire more Filipinos to take part in the movement towards a hunger-free Philippines.

“Our work is far from over, and with the continued support of our partners and the Filipino people, we are confident that we can make a lasting impact in the fight against hunger. Together, we can build a future where no child goes to bed hungry, and every community thrives,” Fleras added.

Read More

Marking 70 Years of Excellence: PMA’s 43rd Agora Awards Honors Stellar Marketing Pioneers

Marking 70 Years of Excellence: PMA’s 43rd Agora Awards Honors Stellar Marketing Pioneers

The Philippine Marketing Association (PMA) rolled the carpet for the 43rd Agora Awards Gala at the Manila Ballroom, Manila Marriott Hotel, celebrating the pinnacle of marketing excellence, honoring outstanding individuals and organizations who have significantly shaped the industry landscape. 

Honoring this year’s celebration, the 43rd Agora Awards Gala brought a special meaning as it coincided with PMA’s 70th anniversary, encapsulated by the theme: “AGORA S.M.I.L.E. – Stellar Marketing Innovators: Legacy of Excellence.”

With the leadership of Director-in-Charge and Overall Chairperson Alpha Gracias C. Allanigui, the 43rd Agora Awards has become a landmark event over the years, and now, it has expanded its recognition to include groundbreaking new categories to celebrate innovative strategies and transformative contributions that push boundaries and set new standards of excellence.

"We are blessed to have not only notable luminaries but also outstanding enterprises in our Agora roster," said Allanigui. "These awardees are making waves and consistently raising their game through their legacy of excellence."

The 43rd Agora Awards introduced new categories to reflect the ever-changing marketing landscape, emphasizing the importance of addressing contemporary challenges and opportunities within the industry. These new categories include Outstanding Achievement in Social Enterprise, which recognizes marketing initiatives that empower communities and drive social change; Outstanding Achievement in Sustainability Marketing, highlighting campaigns that promote environmental responsibility and sustainable practices; and Outstanding Achievement in Marketing Campaign, celebrating groundbreaking strategies and innovative approaches that deliver exceptional results. These additions underscore the awards’ commitment to acknowledging marketers who not only excel in their craft but also contribute meaningfully to society and the planet.

Among the highlights was the Agora Special Trailblazer Award, which honors individuals or companies with triumphs in three distinct Agora categories, showcasing sustained innovation and excellence. This year’s recipient, Century Pacific Food, Inc., exemplified this through its unparalleled achievements, including Agora Company of the Year (2011), Outstanding Achievement in Marketing Management (2014), and Outstanding Achievement in Export Marketing (2018).

Another notable category, the Agora Distinction Award for Nation-Building, celebrates individuals who have elevated the nation’s status through exemplary contributions in their respective fields. This honor was bestowed upon Mansmith and Fielders, Inc., under the leadership of Josiah and Chiqui Go, for their transformative impact on marketing education. Their commitment to fostering a culture of learning, mentorship, and sharing best practices has cemented their role as a cornerstone of marketing innovation and nation-building.

Other winners who embody ingenuity and excellence in their fields included Global Dominion Financing, Inc., SPD Inc., and Avocadoria for Outstanding Achievement in Entrepreneurship across large, medium, and small-scale business categories, respectively. ACEN and Jos Ortega were recognized for their achievements in marketing communication, while Unmeat shone in export marketing. UST and individual educators Enrique Caeg and Dr. Antonio Etrata were celebrated for their contributions to marketing education. The evening also highlighted Rags2Riches’ excellence in social enterprise, Agridom’s sustainability marketing efforts, and Knowledge Channel’s advocacy marketing initiatives. GCash received accolades for its standout marketing campaign, while Greg Banzon and Robert Hechanova were honored for their achievements in marketing management and overseas marketing, respectively.

Significantly, Century Pacific Food’s UnMEAT brand and Greg Banzon each received their second recognition in Export Marketing and Marketing Management, respectively. These distinguished achievements place them on the path to Hall of Fame induction, contingent upon securing another win within the next five years.

COMPLETE LIST OF AWARDEES

Agora Special Trailblazer Award: Century Pacific Food, Inc.

SET 1: Marketing Education and Advocacy

Outstanding Achievement in Marketing Education: University of Sto. Tomas

Outstanding Achievement in Marketing Education – Collegiate: Dr. Antonio E. Etrata – UST

Outstanding Achievement in Marketing Education – Higher Education/Professional: Enrique Pablo O. Caeg, CPM Asia

Outstanding Achievement in Sustainability Marketing: Agridom Solutions Corporation

Outstanding Achievement in Advocacy Marketing: Knowledge Channel Foundation, Inc.

Outstanding Achievement in Social Enterprise: Rags2Riches

SET 2: MarCom & Entrepreneurship

Outstanding Achievement in Marketing Communications – Individual: Joselito B. Ortega

Outstanding Achievement in Marketing Communications – Company/Enterprise: ACEN RES / Tony Valdez

Outstanding Achievement in Export Marketing: UnMEAT

Outstanding Achievement in Entrepreneurship – Small Scale: Czarina J. Sevilla, Avocadoria.ph

Outstanding Achievement in Entrepreneurship – Medium Scale: Sarah P. Deloraya-Matero, SPD Jobs, Inc.

Outstanding Achievement in Entrepreneurship – Large Scale: Patricia P. Palacios, Global Dominion Financing, Inc.

SET 3: Marketing Management

Outstanding Achievement in Overseas Marketing: Roberto Hechanova

Outstanding Achievement in Marketing Management: Gregory Francis H. Banzon, Century Pacific Food, Inc.

Outstanding Achievement in Marketing Campaign: GCash

Agora Distinction Award for Nation-Building Marketing Leadership: Mansmith & Fielders

PMA made the conscious decision not to award a Marketing Company of the Year this year, upholding its commitment to maintaining integrity and ensuring a rigorous, fair judging process.

JUDGING PROCESS

The Agora Awards follows a meticulous and transparent process to ensure that only the most deserving candidates are recognized. Nominations are carefully screened for eligibility, and nominees are informed of their status and submission requirements. Throughout the process, confidentiality is strictly upheld, with all committee members signing agreements to protect sensitive information.

Entries are assessed by category heads and validated via thorough verification, which includes interviews and due diligence. Judges are then selected based on their expertise, forming three panels that evaluate categories aligned with their areas of practice. To maintain objectivity, judges receive documents for review days before deliberations. During the deliberation process, only judges and the official tabulator, SGV, are present, ensuring fairness and impartiality. Winners are announced only after SGV verifies the results.

Chairperson Allanigui expressed her gratitude to the judges, category heads, committees, and supporters who worked tirelessly to bring the event to life. She also shared her personal reflection on leading the Agora Awards: “The Agora Awards is my way of giving back to the marketing and business community. It is a labor of love, a journey of learning and patience, and a constant reminder of Filipino ingenuity. The stories of our nominees and awardees are inspiring testaments to innovation and integrity. For me, the Agora is more than an event—it is a beacon of hope that highlights the brighter side of our nation’s future.”

She concluded by lauding all the awardees, adding, “Their stories remind us that the best marketing comes from the heart, driven by purpose and a desire to uplift and inspire. Congratulations to all the awardees for being true beacons of excellence. May your work continue to inspire businesses to thrive while helping build a brighter future for all.”

To learn more about the PMA’s Agora Awards and see how you can be part of their annual prestigious event, you may visit the Facebook page of the Philippine Marketing Association or https://philippinemarketing.org/agora-awards/

Read More

DOT, DSWD formalize partnership to aid disaster-affected tourism front liners

DOT, DSWD formalize partnership to aid disaster-affected tourism front liners

Tourism workers affected by natural calamities, disasters, and emergencies can now avail of financial and training assistance from the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). 

This, after Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian formally sealed the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on the Bayanihan sa Bukas na may Pag-asa sa Turismo (BBMT) program on Thursday (Jan. 23). Undersecretaries Shahlimar Hofer Tamano and Diana Rose Cajipe were also present and served as witnesses. 

This means that qualified tourism frontliners may now avail of the DSWD’s existing cash assistance programs, including the Emergency Cash Transfers (ECT) and Cash for Work, while simultaneously receiving the DOT interventions on alternative livelihood training programs like basic hilot; candle making; beads and artwork training; basic bread and pastry making; detergent making; fun farm tour product development; tourism awareness and tourist reception seminar; community-based kulinarya; and the Filipino brand of Service Excellence (FBSE), if their usual sources of livelihood have been disrupted by calamities and emergencies, including those affected by the recent eruption of Mt. Kanlaon in Negros Occidental. 

The partnership seeks potential program participants who can be disaster-qualified tourism workers listed under the Listahanan 3; other qualified household beneficiaries under a standardized/unified targeting system used by the DSWD; other criteria prescribed in other disaster risk reduction guidelines that will be promulgated in the future; resident workers in tourism destinations or attractions; members of a community-based tourism organization or beneficiaries jointly approved by the DSWD and DOT; or may be affected by calamities or emergencies that disrupted their livelihood as tourism service providers. 

“I'm so grateful to Secretary Rex Gatchalian and to the entire team of the DSWD for the culmination of months of coordination that will benefit thousands of tourism workers across the country,” Secretary Frasco said in her speech during the signing ceremony held in Pasay City. 

“Tourism is such a reliable source of livelihood and a reliable pillar of our economy that notwithstanding climate-related disasters, it can continue to provide a source of employment and income. And what the partnership with the DSWD will do is that it will capacitate the DOT as well to come in and to provide the assistance that's necessary for them to go on with their lives and continue to have sources of livelihood,” she emphasized, noting that the partnership is just the beginning of more collaborations with the DSWD. 

“Through this partnership, we can also see where national government funding goes– that there is a concrete demonstration of the result of the government interventions given to our tourism workers. In the DOT, we are committed to continuing to uplift the lives of Filipino tourism workers all over the country and to capacitate them with skills that will ensure that tourism continues to be a positive force in their lives and the transformation of the quality of lives of their families,” she added. 

For his part, Secretary Gatchalian said that this partnership ensures “that the marginalized, those affected by natural calamities, or those with a greater poverty issue,”, are directly impacted by the financial capacities of the DSWD: “I would like to express our gratitude to the Department of Tourism for this groundbreaking partnership that will help our dedicated workers in the tourism industry. The tourism sector is undeniably a cornerstone of our economy. The tireless efforts of our tourism workers have played a crucial role in showcasing the beauty of the Philippines. However, because of the recent disasters that hit the country due to national calamity and natural and manmade hazards that were further aggravated by the effects of climate change, it is unfortunate to witness the devastating impacts of calamities in our poor communities. Part of these communities that are directly affected whenever we have disasters are the workers in the tourism center since their families, homes, and properties are not the only ones that are affected, but also their way of life.” 

“We are very excited that this partnership is a synergy of your vision with our mandate and making sure that we efficiently use government resources to reach as many communities to help as to many distinct communities there are in the country. In response, the DSWD is proud to partner with the DOT to implement the Bayanihan sa Bukas na may Pag-asa sa Turismo” or the BBMT,” he added. 

Last May 27, 2024, both Secretaries attended the pilot run of the BBMT to give financial and training assistance to the victims of widespread flooding in several areas of the Davao Region and Agusan Del Sur in the Caraga region in early February 2024. The ceremony was held in Mati City, Davao Oriental.

Read More

BIGO Awards Gala 2025 Dazzles Over a 140,000 Viewers Online and Offline

BIGO Awards Gala 2025 Dazzles Over a 140,000 Viewers Online and Offline

Thursday, January 30, 2025

Over 1,000 guests attended the Gala that was held in Singapore and over 140,000 viewers watched the event livestreamed on Bigo Live

Bigo Live, the leading global livestreaming platform, recognised more than 200 top content creators from around 40 countries at the sixth annual BIGO Awards Gala 2025 that was held in Singapore. The annual Gala recognised and celebrated Bigo Live’s content creators and the wider global community that promotes positivity and spreads happiness through an inclusive digital livestreaming platform. 

“The BIGO Awards Gala celebrates the most popular and brightest content creators who have made a positive impact on their local communities and beyond. This event underscores Bigo Live’s commitment to empowering people to showcase their talents, share inspiring stories, and connect with people worldwide online and offline. We remain dedicated to building a trusted and positive platform and ecosystem that fosters creativity, inclusivity, and meaningful connections,” said a Bigo Live spokesperson.

Ambassadors and guests from leading business associations in Singapore joined over 1,000 guests at the Gala which was held at the Marina Bay Sands Theatre. The Gala was co-hosted by Vernetta Lopez, veteran Singaporean actress and radio DJ, and Rishi Budhrani, renowned Singaporean actor, host and comedian. It was also exclusively livestreamed on Bigo Live to over 140,000 viewers globally.

Celebrating Power Of Connection and Creative Expression 

'Live Your Oasis' was the theme of the 2025 Gala which celebrated creativity, community, and sustainability while fostering a safe and innovative digital ecosystem. 

The highlight of the Gala was the recognition of outstanding content creators, with over 200 creators and families honoured across Regional, Continental and Global Top Awards including ‘Most Uplifting Livestream’, ‘Best Family Content’ and ‘Global Community Builder’.

The top three winners of the Regional ranking from The Philippines were CHA (Bigo ID: gonggcha), Jᴀɴɴɪɴᴇ (Bigo ID: ninjajannine) and iKᗩᑎG (Bigo ID: ikangmo) while Families ranked in the top three Regional ranking include The Daniels (Fam ID:77733), PRIME (Fam ID: 15030) and DKSA (Fam ID: 6369).

Fans and viewers from around the world also supported their favourite content creators through the ‘vote box’ on Bigo Live. The votebox allowed online viewers to vote for,

• Most Popular Broadcaster of the Year

• Most Popular Family of the Year

• Gala Star

The virtual live voting session brought together Bigo Live’s online and offline community to uplift the performers and the top performing content creators.

Guests were also treated to a dazzling array of performances. A total of 35 performers from around the world lit up the night with captivating performances across pop, opera, hip hop, and rock music, as well as acrobatic and dance acts, showcasing how art and creative expression transcends borders and unites cultures. The lineup of performers include United Queens (UK), The Camellias (Japan), Eman & Mohanad (Egypt), The Blue Halo Experience (US/Canada), Divine Harmonies (The Philippines) and Luminous (Vietnam).

Transcending Borders, Uniting Cultures

The global creator economy is projected to be worth $480 billion by 2027, according to a report by Goldman Sachs, and Bigo Live is leading the way in fostering meaningful connections both online and offline by offering a safe digital space for users across countries to build communities through shared interests. The platform, which has over 500 million users in 150 countries, has built a positive, inclusive and diverse social ecosystem through its responsible use of the internet, localised market strategy and community-first approach.

Bigo Live Philippines heavily invests in the continual expansion and innovation of its tools and capabilities for creators to unlock their creative potential. Over the years, the platform has initiated awareness campaigns and programmes for meaningful content and collaboration to drive positive impact and change in the Philippines. These include campaigns promoting inclusivity and positive impact such as the Transgender Talent Show in collaboration with Bigo Runway and Bigo Voice Music Fest.

Read More

Visa Highlights the Role of Payments in Shaping Gen Z's Financial Future

Visa Highlights the Role of Payments in Shaping Gen Z's Financial Future

Sunday, January 26, 2025

Gen Z, now in their 20s and 30s, is beginning to drive changes in work, business, and relationships, according to research from Visa (NYSE: V), a global leader in digital payments. As these young professionals aged 16 to 30 pursue financial independence, they are redefining youth financial management and embracing a dynamic, holistic approach to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

Visa’s latest Green Shoots Radar survey found that Gen Z respondents surveyed in Asia Pacific tend to save their income, setting aside about 30% of what they earn. Increased awareness of financial goals (47%) drives these young individuals in the region to further build their savings, with about half committed to practicing better financial management (47%). As a generation shaped by diverse experiences and perspectives, this group places significant value on cultivating a stronger mental and emotional approach toward financial management (36%).

“Gen Z is a generation that values flexibility and innovation, leveraging digital tools to navigate an increasingly dynamic financial landscape,” said Jeffrey Navarro, Country Manager for Visa Philippines. “At Visa, we are committed to empowering Gen Z with secure, accessible, and innovative payment solutions that align with their needs and aspirations. Through our advanced technologies and educational initiatives, we aim to support their journey toward financial independence and long-term success.”

Emphasizing Payments in Financial Journeys

For Gen Z, financial success is not about following a single path but finding a strategy that aligns with their individual aspirations and lifestyles. As a generation that values adaptability and independence, they seek flexibility in their financial journey, balancing enjoying the present and securing their future.

To manage the rising costs of living, over half of Gen Z in APAC (57%) reduce spending and cut back on non-essential expenses. Additionally, 36% of this age group in the region value the importance of creating and following a strict budget as part of maintaining financial stability.

While Gen Z prioritizes saving, they also embrace opportunities to indulge in meaningful purchases, with 91% in the region willing to spend on big-ticket items. Topping their list is travel and vacations (53%), followed by electronics, computers, and mobile devices (49%).

Supporting a Digital-First Lifestyle with Visa

As digital natives, Gen Z relies on technology for everything from shopping to banking. Visa’s Green Shoots Radar survey highlights that 60% of Gen Z in APAC already own a credit card, underscoring their adoption of cashless transactions. Payment systems tailored to a digital-first lifestyle, including mobile wallets, contactless options, and integrated financial apps, provide ease and accessibility, enabling financial independence to become a tangible goal.

Visa’s commitment to innovation ensures that Gen Z can transact confidently and securely. By integrating advanced technologies such as tokenization and fraud prevention, Visa provides a seamless and safe payment experience for this tech-savvy generation. Features such as Click to Pay and Tap to Pay by Visa also support Gen Z in fulfilling their financial priorities and pursuing their lifestyle aspirations with ease and seamless accessibility. By combining intuitive security with the convenience of a simple click or tap, Visa ensures that transactions are not only convenient but also secure.

Visa’s Value-Added Services Empowering Businesses

Visa’s Value-Added Services (VAS), such as Acceptance Solutions, Issuing Solutions, Visa Protect, and Advisory Services, empower businesses to innovate, grow, and build trust in a fast-paced digital environment. By leveraging insights from Visa's Advisory Services on Gen Z behavior in the Philippines, businesses can better engage their target audiences, improving customer acquisition, engagement, and retention.

Understanding Gen Z's Impact on Payments and Commerce

As Gen Z continues to navigate an increasingly digital world, their financial habits and preferences will shape the future of payments and commerce. For businesses, understanding this generation's focus on practicality, flexibility, and meaningful choices is essential. Leveraging targeted insights, such as those provided by Visa’s Advisory Services, can help businesses craft experiences that align with Gen Z’s expectations in a digital-first world.

Gen Z’s adaptable, purpose-driven approach balances immediate needs with long-term goals, leveraging technology to manage expenses and drive growth. Their influence shapes a future of progress and innovation. Visa, through its solutions, empowers businesses to navigate these shifts and create meaningful experiences that resonate with this influential generation.

Read More

International Workplace Group Expands to Pampanga, Partners with Mabalacat Prime Land

International Workplace Group Expands to Pampanga, Partners with Mabalacat Prime Land

International Workplace Group (IWG), the world’s largest provider of hybrid working solutions with brands including Regus and Spaces, is pleased to announce the opening of its first Regus centre in Mabalacat, Pampanga, set to launch on January 27, 2025. This expansion is made possible through a strategic collaboration with Mabalacat Prime Land Realty and Development Corporation.

Located at Skytech IT Park, right along McArthur Highway, the new centre will play a pivotal role in IWG’s growing presence across the Philippines. Strategically positioned to serve Pampanga’s dynamic economic landscape, the partnership is forged to meet the needs of businesses and professionals seeking flexible workspace solutions in the region’s thriving hub.

Supporting Regional Growth and Connectivity

Mabalacat City, a vital gateway to Central Luzon, is perfectly positioned as a central hub for businesses aiming to expand regionally. Its strategic location near major terminals, highways, and expressways makes it an ideal destination for companies seeking a strong regional presence. The city's connectivity and access to key provincial areas further enhance its appeal as a prime location for establishing a regional headquarters.

“This partnership reflects our mutual commitment to driving growth and providing businesses with the support they need to succeed in Central Luzon’s dynamic landscape,” said Katarina Sy, Sales and Finance Director of Mabalacat Prime Land Realty and Development Corporation. “Mabalacat is rapidly emerging as a key business destination, and we are excited to contribute to its growth through this collaboration with IWG.”

The Mabalacat Regus centre will offer a variety of workspace options designed to meet the diverse needs of modern businesses:

• Fully equipped private offices
• Collaborative coworking spaces
• State-of-the-art meeting rooms
• Access to IWG’s global network via its app

Expanding IWG’s Reach in the Philippines

IWG’s model and local partnerships position the company as the global provider of the hybrid workspace revolution. This partnership with Mabalacat Prime Land Realty and Development Corporation reinforces IWG’s leadership in delivering flexible work solutions that meet the needs of businesses and individuals alike.

The Mabalacat Regus centre is part of IWG’s strategic expansion in the Philippines. These centres will provide professionals and businesses with state-of-the-art facilities, promoting the benefits of flexible, hybrid work solutions. With a rapidly increasing demand for such spaces, IWG is committed to bringing its world-class workspaces closer to businesses in regional hubs across the country.

“This new centre in Mabalacat underscores our commitment to supporting hybrid working in the Philippines. As the demand for flexible workspaces continues to rise, we are proud to provide businesses with cost-effective, scalable solutions that enable them to operate with enhanced flexibility and efficiency.” Lars Wittig, Senior VP, APAC North, IWG, commented.

Mark Dixon, CEO & Founder of International Workplace Group PLC, commented: “We are establishing a stronger and much-needed footprint in the Philippines with this latest opening. As an important business hub, Mabalacat City, is a fantastic place for us to boost our expansion plans. The need for high-quality flexible workspaces continues to soar as hybrid working becomes the new normal. We are very pleased to work in partnership with Mabalacat Prime Land Realty and Development Corporation to develop the Regus brand under a management agreement that will add a cutting-edge workspace to their building.

“Our opening in Mabalacat comes at a time when more and more companies are discovering that flexible working boosts employee happiness and satisfaction, while helping the environment. Our workplace model is also proven to increase productivity and allows for a business to scale up or down at significantly reduced costs.”

Driving Market Leadership through Partnerships

The flexible workspace market is projected to grow to USD 58.07 billion by 2037, with coworking spaces accounting for 38% of the market share. Businesses adopting hybrid models report significant cost savings, with companies saving an average of USD 11,000 per employee annually.

With over 4,000 locations globally, IWG continues to provide innovative, flexible working environments. The Philippines remains a standout market for IWG. In the Philippines alone, IWG operates 33 centres, including recent launches in Cagayan de Oro, Baguio, and Mandaluyong. Additional openings are planned in Carmona in Cavite, Makati and Lipa in Batangas in early 2025. By embracing flexible working, these businesses achieve greater productivity, operational agility, efficiency, and market proximity, positioning themselves for success in an evolving work landscape.

IWG’s multi-brand strategy caters to businesses and entrepreneurs of all types and sizes. The company provides personal, financial, and strategic value to a wide range of clients—from some of the world’s largest and most innovative companies to up-and-coming startups and individual professionals.

Responding to the shift away from traditional office spaces, IWG signed 465 new locations globally in the first half of 2024 and now serves 83% of Fortune 500 companies. As hybrid working accelerates globally, the potential for growth is extraordinary, with an estimated 1.2 billion white-collar workers and a total addressable market exceeding USD 2 trillion. IWG’s commitment to this expanding market is backed by an annual technology investment of USD 64 million, ensuring seamless operations for its partners and clients.

Read More

Philippines to Host ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026

Philippines to Host ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026

Friday, January 24, 2025

In a significant milestone for Philippine tourism, The Philippines represented by Secretary of Tourism Christina Garcia Frasco formally accepted the chairmanship of the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2026 during a ceremonial handover held at the Johor International Convention Center on January 20, 2025. The symbolic gavel was handed over to Secretary Frasco by Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Malaysian Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture marking The Philippines' commitment to host this prestigious event.

The ATF is set to include the highly anticipated ASEAN Tourism Ministers’ Meeting, which will convene in the province of Cebu in January 2026.

Meanwhile, the preparatory meetings leading to the most prestigious gathering in ASEAN will be held in Manila and Boracay.

“As the Philippines takes on the Chairmanship of ASEAN 2026, I invite you to join us in the Philippines for the 29th ASEAN Tourism Ministers’ Meeting in Cebu on January 2026. It will be an opportunity not just to discuss policies, but to witness firsthand the immense potential for sustainable tourism growth in the region,” Secretary Frasco said.

She highlighted the warmth and hospitality of the Filipino people, along with the rich culture and stunning natural beauty that Cebu has to offer.

Secretary Frasco emphasized that “Cebu is a hallmark of unity — evincing what can happen when communities, businesses, and governments come together to create a tourism model that is both profitable and responsible”.

“The Philippines, with its spirit of hospitality and deep sense of community, stands ready to open its pristine shores to all of you, where we will write a new chapter of the ASEAN story: a legacy of unity, sustainability, and prosperity for all,” she added.

Aside from the ASEAN meetings, a TRAVEX trade show, and various conferences will also be hosted by the Philippines as part of the ATF 2026.

The Philippines' upcoming hosting of the ATF follows the country's successful mounting of the 36th UN Tourism Joint Commission Meeting for the Asia Pacific and South Asia, as well as the inaugural UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism.

Philippines as Vice Chair

Alongside her participation in the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2025, Secretary Frasco served as vice chair at the 28th ASEAN Tourism Ministers’ Meeting, which was attended by tourism ministers from ASEAN member states Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, Timor Leste, and Vietnam, as well as representatives from Russia, Japan, India, and South Korea.

As the lead country coordinator for the development of the ASEAN Tourism Sectoral Plan (ATSP) Post-2025, Secretary Frasco presented updates and recommendations to fellow ministers aimed at fostering a tourism sector that drives equitable and sustainable economic growth for all.

“The ATSP envisions a tourism landscape that not only stimulates economic progress but does so in a manner that is equitable and sustainable. Our focus extends beyond quantity to quality – prioritizing convenience and safety in tourism, promoting longer stays and increased spending, all while safeguarding our natural resources and honoring our heritage and culture,” said Secretary Frasco.

She also emphasized the Philippines’ commitment to work with its ASEAN neighbors to build a sustainable tourism industry, “where tourism is not only about counting visitors but measuring their spending, contributions, and impact upon our communities, driven by the primordial principle of preserving the unique cultures and ecosystems that make the ASEAN a truly special place to visit.”

The Tourism Chief of the Philippines also called ASEAN a “family.” “United by a shared vision for the mutual prosperity of our nations, we perpetuate the notion that tourism is a force for good: transforming lives, sustaining livelihoods, forging friendships, creating memories etched in the hearts of all who come upon our streets and shores.”

Read More